World War II Memorial, National memorial on the National Mall in Washington DC, United States.
The World War II Memorial stands on the National Mall between Constitution and Independence Avenues, featuring a central fountain surrounded by 56 granite pillars representing each state and territory. Two 43-foot (13 meter) arches mark the Atlantic and Pacific victories and frame the main entrances.
The memorial was dedicated in 2004 to honor 16 million Americans who served during World War II. Its construction followed years of planning and public advocacy to recognize this global conflict's impact on the nation.
The Freedom Wall displays 4,048 gold stars, each representing 100 American casualties, while bronze reliefs show scenes from European and Pacific campaigns that soldiers experienced. Visitors come here to honor the fallen and recognize the veterans who served from every state and territory.
The memorial offers daily access with National Park Service rangers available from 9:30 to 22:00 to assist visitors. It sits easily within the National Mall between two major avenues, making it a straightforward stop while exploring the memorial sites.
The memorial incorporates hidden 'Kilroy was here' drawings, a significant symbol for American soldiers during the war, within its architectural elements. This secret detail honors soldier culture and shows how everyday moments from the troops were preserved in the design.
Location: Washington, D.C.
Inception: 2004
Creator: Friedrich St. Florian
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Operator: National Park Service
Address: Independence Avenue Southwest
Opening Hours: Monday 00:00-00:00; Sunday 04:00-22:00
Phone: +18006394992
Email: WWII.CustomerService@Oaktreesys.com
Website: https://nps.gov/wwii
GPS coordinates: 38.88944,-77.04056
Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:00
Washington D.C offers far more than what you see in news coverage of the White House. The city is home to remarkable monuments, world-class museums, and buildings that tell the story of American history and culture. Many visitors come here and follow the same routes, seeing the same well-known spots. But if you take time to explore beyond the main crowds, you will find places that give you a real sense of what makes this city matter. You can walk through neighborhoods, sit in quieter galleries, and stand in front of buildings and memorials that shaped the nation in ways you might not expect. The Lincoln Memorial, the National Museum of Natural History, the Library of Congress, and the Albert Einstein Memorial are just some of the places worth spending time in. Each one tells a different story and reveals something new about American life and thought. Arlington National Cemetery, just across the river, offers a solemn and moving experience that many people remember long after they leave. This collection invites you to look beyond the politics and discover the depth and richness of what Washington D.C actually holds. You will find that the city speaks to you in ways that go much deeper than headlines and official tours.
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World War II Memorial Information
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